What Can You Do to Prevent Stormwater Pollution?

Take responsibility for your little piece of the world.Sweep up driveways, sidewalks and gutters so that stormwater won’t carry debris from these areas into rivers and streams. Vegetate bare spots in the yard; and be sure to compost yard waste. This includes picking up after pets. Dispose of pet waste in
the trash or flush it down the toilet.

Make an effort to limit runoff.Direct downspouts away from paved surfaces. Consider a rain garden to capture runoff from downspouts. Wash the car in the yard or take it to the car wash instead of washing it in the driveway. Minimize runoff by not over-watering your lawn and garden.

Maintain waste systems responsibly. Have septic systems inspected for leaks and service the system every three years.
It is also important to have any abandoned wells plugged since contaminated groundwater can seep into abandoned wells unfiltered by the soil and contaminate the water supply.

Recognize chemicals, pesticides, fertilizers and other hazardous materials as toxins and treat them with great care. Limit their use as much as possible; and always follow the label directions. Try to use the least toxic product or method available. Avoid pouring things down the drain or toilet that will harm the system, such as hazardous chemicals, coffee grounds,
diapers, etc. Recycle used anti-freeze, motor oil or other hazardous chemicals. Never pour hazardous chemicals into the ground, storm drains or streams. They can get into the ground water supply causing serious contamination problems. The result is toxic
to people and animals. The proper way to dispose of hazardous chemicals is to take them to solid waste management for disposal.

Learn more about protecting the local water supply. Attend one of our education sessions and learn how you can become an even more effective part of the solution. Call 765-473-6681 Ext 2003 to sign up for the next class.

Help us spread the word!It is up to each of us to protect our environment and ensure that our water remains safe for
generations to come.